In previous threads, the benefits of clubs being in affiliated to the AWGB have been discussed, the most recently being the "Woodturning Clubs" thread. One of the benefits is access to training courses.
Last weekend, three other club members and I were fortunate enough to be able to attend an AWGB Demonstrator training course here in Cornwall so no significant travelling required by us. I can recommend this training course for anybody who is thinking of doing demonstrations to fellow club members or improve their performance if they already have some experience at demonstrating.
I am not a complete beginner at demonstrating as I have already done six over the past few years having learned the basics of teaching in the Air Force over thirty years ago. All were project based demos on subjects that I felt very comfortable with and I thoroughly enjoyed preparing for and doing them. Looking forward now to putting what I learned at the weekend into practice.
In the same thread, Ron of Bury asked about a list of successful trainees. I wouldn't bother pursuing this Ron. I expect most trainees are like me in that they have no ambition to take their demonstration skills on the road. Personally, I do not have the skills in woodturning or demonstrating to do this even if I had the desire. Until a few years ago, almost all the demonstrations in one of my clubs were carried out by one man. Apart from the enjoyment I get, demonstrating to my fellow club members relieves the pressure on that individual and gives members a bit of variety.
Thanks AWGB. Keep up the good work.
